What Does 925 Mean on Jewellery?

If you’ve ever looked closely at a piece of silver jewellery, you’ve probably noticed a small stamp that reads “925”. It’s subtle - usually tucked away on the inside of a ring or at the clasp of a necklace - but it carries a lot of meaning.

That tiny number tells you more than you might think about your jewellery’s quality, purity, and longevity. Whether you’re buying your first silver piece or simply curious about what you already own, here’s everything you need to know about the “925” mark and why it matters.

What Does 925 Actually Mean?

The number 925 refers to the purity of the silver in your jewellery. It means the piece is made of 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% made up of other metals, usually copper.

Pure silver, sometimes called fine silver, is too soft to use for everyday wear. By combining it with a small amount of another metal, it becomes stronger, more durable, and less likely to bend or scratch. This makes 925 sterling silver ideal for jewellery - it keeps its beautiful shine but can handle the wear and tear of daily life.

925 vs. 999 Silver - What’s the Difference?

You might also see references to 999 silver, which is 99.9% pure silver. While that might sound better at first, there’s a reason it’s rarely used for jewellery.

999 silver is much softer, so it scratches and bends easily. It’s often used for bullion, coins, or decorative pieces rather than rings, earrings, or bracelets. If you’d like to explore the differences further, our article on 925 vs 999 silver breaks down which type is best for everyday wear.

How to Know If Your Jewellery Is Genuine 925 Sterling Silver

There are a few ways to check if your piece is genuine sterling silver:

• Look for the stamp: Most authentic silver jewellery will have “925” or “STERLING” engraved in an inconspicuous spot.
• Check for tarnish: Real silver develops a soft, natural patina over time, which is a good sign it’s genuine.
• Magnet test: Silver isn’t magnetic, so if your piece sticks to a magnet, it’s not sterling silver.
• Feel and colour: Real silver has a cool, smooth feel and a subtle glow that isn’t overly shiny or yellowish.

If you’re ever unsure, a jeweller can perform a professional silver test to confirm authenticity.

Why 925 Silver Is So Popular

925 sterling silver strikes the perfect balance between beauty, affordability, and practicality. It’s timeless, easy to care for, and versatile enough for everyday wear.

Some of the reasons people love 925 silver include:

• It’s hypoallergenic for most wearers, especially compared to cheaper alloys.
• It’s long-lasting and can be polished back to its original shine.
• It has a classic, understated look that complements every style.
• It’s affordable compared to solid gold, yet still feels special and refined.

You can explore our sterling silver jewellery collection to see timeless designs that suit every style.

How to Care for 925 Silver Jewellery

Even the best silver needs a little care to stay beautiful. Over time, exposure to air, moisture, and skin oils can cause silver to tarnish slightly - but it’s easy to prevent. Storing your pieces in soft cloth pouches and polishing them gently keeps them looking new for years.

If you love wearing silver by the water, our post on swimming with sterling silver jewellery explains why it’s best to remove your pieces before diving in. For everyday care and storage, our silver care guide covers everything from cleaning tips to tarnish prevention.

925 Silver and Gold-Plated Silver

Many people love both silver and gold tones, and both have their place in a coastal-inspired collection. Gold-plated silver starts with sterling silver as the base metal and adds a thin layer of gold on top. This gives you the warmth of gold with the strength and affordability of silver underneath. To keep your gold-plated pieces in great condition, see our guide on how to care for gold-plated jewellery.

Why “925” Matters

That small 925 stamp is your reassurance that your piece is authentic sterling silver - a durable, high-quality metal designed to last. Whether it’s a delicate ring or a bold necklace, 925 silver carries more than just shine. It carries meaning, craftsmanship, and a timeless connection to nature’s simplicity.

FAQs: What Does 925 Mean on Jewellery?

Does 925 mean it’s real silver?

Yes, 925 means your jewellery contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This blend makes it stronger and more resistant to wear while keeping its bright silver appearance.

Will 925 silver tarnish over time?

Yes, genuine silver reacts naturally with air and moisture, which can lead to light tarnishing. It’s completely normal and can be easily polished away with a soft cloth, restoring its original shine.

Can I wear 925 silver every day?

Absolutely. Sterling silver is made for daily wear and often looks even better over time. Just avoid chemicals, perfumes, and salt water to keep it looking its best.

Is 925 silver hypoallergenic?

For most people, yes. Sterling silver is considered a safe choice for sensitive skin and rarely causes irritation. If you’re highly sensitive, rhodium-plated silver is another good option for extra protection.

How do I clean 925 silver?

You can gently clean your silver jewellery with a soft cloth or mild soap and warm water. For a more detailed approach, our sterling silver care guide explains how to keep your pieces bright without harsh chemicals.